[Book 2]
"Nobody realizes how fast time goes, until time ends"
Dumbledore finds his way over to Victoria Potter, to confess that he may have concealed a secret from her about her family.
(All rights go to JK Rowling, I only take credit for the cha...
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Victoria read the Daily Prophet with mounting unease. The news was grim—another Dementor attack and increasing numbers of students being withdrawn from Hogwarts for safety. The sense of dread was palpable, and Victoria's anxiety was exacerbated by her constant worry about Regulus. He was supposed to be tucked away safely in her dormitory, but his occasional, unannounced escapes made her restless.
With a deep breath, Victoria hurried towards the library, her mind racing with thoughts of what she could do to help Dumbledore. However, he had been elusive lately, making it difficult for her to discuss her concerns with him.
She neared the library, she spotted Slughorn a short distance ahead.
"Hello, Professor," she greeted him brightly, hoping a conversation might momentarily distract her from her worries.
"Ah, Ms. Blake!" Slughorn exclaimed with a beaming smile. "Just who I wanted to run into. I was hoping to catch you before dinner! What do you say to a spot of supper tonight in my rooms instead? We're having a little party—just a few rising stars. I've got McLaggen coming, and Zabini, the charming Eleodora Lupin—you might know her? She's the daughter of Remus Lupin, a bright young witch indeed. And, of course, Miss Granger and Harry will be there."
Victoria's eyes widened slightly. She remembered Slughorn's previous parties, and how she had never been invited. She wasn't sure why, but the invitation now felt unexpected. "I'm invited?"
Slughorn nodded vigorously. "Yes, yes, I never invited you before, even though you are a bright witch. Very bright indeed. I do apologize for that. But you will come, won't you?"
Victoria hesitated for a moment, considering the implications of attending such an event during these turbulent times. With a reassuring smile, she nodded. "Indeed I will."
"Excellent!" Slughorn cheered. "Excuse me now; I have to speak to Snape about arranging Harry's detention so he can attend our party." He bustled away, leaving Victoria to continue on her way.
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Victoria stood in front of the mirror, holding up two dresses, uncertain which one to wear for Slughorn's dinner party. She turned to Regulus, who was lounging nearby, seeking his opinion.
"This one," she said, displaying a white dress with an elegant A-line cut. The dress featured a fitted bodice and a flared skirt, with a square neckline and wide shoulder straps. The creamy white satin fabric had a subtle sheen, and the length fell just below her knees, giving it a classic and timeless appeal. "Or this one," she added, showing him a sleek black midi dress. The black dress had a fitted silhouette with a deep V-neckline and three-quarter length sleeves, adding a touch of formality. The slightly flared skirt also fell below her knees, and the smooth, matte fabric exuded understated elegance.
Regulus eyed the two dresses thoughtfully, his gaze moving between them as he weighed his decision. "Both are lovely," he said after a moment, his tone sincere. "But if I had to choose, I'd say the black dress."
